Swimming collegebound: Elizabeth Gaspari

Continuing her swimming career in college was an objective for Elizabeth Gaspari throughout high school, but it wasn't until her junior year that the reality of her pursuit hit home.

"I made the goal for myself to go to a competitive Division I school where I could contribute to the team's success," said Gaspari, a Berks Catholic grad who swam for Reading High. "When I received interest from schools my junior year, my eyes opened to the real possibility of being able to attain this dream, and it motivated me every day in the pool and at the gym."

That motivation helped Gaspari achieve her goal at Penn State, where she'll continue her career on a partial athletic scholarship.

A two-time All-American and individual state medalist who won gold in the 100-yard freestyle at the District 3 3A championships and medaled in the 50 free at states this year, Gaspari also considered Rutgers, but knew Penn State was her likely destination.

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Gaspari liked the athletic and academic challenge Penn State presented, and her recruiting trip helped solidify that it was the right place for her.

"What really clicked for me was the school's atmosphere as a whole," she said. "The girls on the team were so welcoming, and the coaches were very goal driven, which was also something that I was looking for.

"Ever since Penn State showed interest in me, they immediately jumped to the top of my list because the school and the program were everything I wanted."

Gaspari, who won 14 individual and relay district medals, expects to swim sprint and mid-distance freestyle for the Nittany Lions and head coach Tim Murphy.

"We are looking forward to having Elizabeth join us in the fall," said Murphy. "She is a dynamic young lady who has set challenging goals for herself and will be a welcome addition to the Penn State swimming and diving family."

Also an outstanding water polo player who was the Berks player of the year and Miss Pennsylvania Water Polo in 2016, Gaspari considered trying to play both sports in college - especially after helping Reading High to the PWSPL state tournament for the first time.

"But I eventually decided swimming was going to be my focus," she said.

That focus, said Reading High coach Matt Lubas, included a remarkable amount of work and dedication.

"I can honestly say I've not come across an athlete that has done it better," said Lubas. "From her attitude in practice in the pool and probably more importantly in the weight room, Elizabeth really stepped up. And what I found was people were looking at her and saying, 'Wow,' and wanted to strive to do it.

"She really was a leader in that more and more kids kind of emulated her and just upped the way they worked. She's a great example of what it takes to be a top athlete. From the pool to the weight room to her diet to her mental preparation, it's the best I've ever seen."